Now that the September heatwave is officially over, it’s time to welcome the cooler days of October and everything they have to offer. And since October is a month with not one but two holidays, most of us might be tempted to overindulge. However, there are ways to make it through the month without completely draining your wallet.
Here are a few tips.
Embrace Thanksgiving Leftovers
If you are celebrating Thanksgiving with a big traditional turkey dinner, it wouldn’t hurt to bring along some tupperware. No, you don’t have to eat turkey sandwiches for a week – there are lots of meals that you can make from leftovers. From gnocchi made with sweet potato to turkey bolognese, post-Thanksgiving is probably the best time to save some food dollars. And speaking of saving money on food…
Prep Lunches for the Week
Meal prepping isn’t exactly a new trend, but it has taken off in recent years thanks to Instagram. And while you can meal prep all year round, rich fall dishes like creamy soups and hearty stews are great options for many reasons. For one, it’s super easy to double or triple a recipe depending on your needs. Plus they reheat well and can often taste better the day after. If you’re looking for inspiration, Toronto food blogs like Abbey’s Kitchen and Closet Cooking have some great soup and stew recipes that will surely spice up your weekday work lunch.
Avoid the Overpriced Seasonal Drinks
It’s #PSL season, but at almost six dollars a pop, those sweet sips can really add up. If you’re penny-pinching this fall, opting for a more basic drink like coffee or tea instead of a seasonal speciality can help. Additionally, if you bring your own mug, many coffee shops will offer you a discount. Lastly, if you have a loyalty card when used responsibly, it can help you save as the dollars you spend earn you free drinks.
Go Thrifting
Looking to give your wardrobe a fall ‘17 update? Or maybe you want to get a head start on Halloween? Then get thee to a thrift store! Fortunately, Toronto has plenty of second-hand stores where you can score some sweet deals. If you have old clothes in good condition, many consignment stores like Kind Exchange and Common Sort will offer you cash or credit to use in store. But if you insist on shopping…
Head to a Warehouse or Sample Sale
‘Tis the season for warehouse and sample sales, and if you live in the GTA, there are plenty in the area to peruse. You’ll be saving up to 80% — or if you’re lucky, up to 90% — on furniture, clothing, footwear and more. Stay in the loop about when these sales are happening by signing up for our mailing list or checking out our event listings.
Skimp on the Halloween Costume this Year
If you want to save even more money, DIY your costume instead. There are ton of costumes in your closet, you just have to get creative. Have a plaid shirt? You’re a lumberjack. Got a yellow sweater you never wear anymore? Dig it up, put your hand into a fist, and you’re this classic Arthur meme. Have a leather jacket you’ve been dying to wear? Wear all black and suddenly you’re Sandy or Danny from Grease. The options are endless! Get more ideas here.